Best Housekeeping 2011

Our favorites from Wallpaper* Magazine's annual design awards are the renegade categories that break away from typical shout-outs like "best new fashion collection" or "best upholstery." One such category — appropriate for Apartment Therapy as we wrap up a January full of 'fresh starts' — is the "Best Housekeeping" awards for 2011, which went to a hotel, a stepladder, a laundry rinse, and a modular cleaning system.

Operated by the Maybourne Group (owners of Claridge's and the Berkeley as well), the Connaught is a five-star establishment with a Michellin-starred restaurant. Following a $140 million restoration a couple of years ago, it's maintained its reputation for attentive staff and luxurious details.

Australian apothecary chain Aesop created this laundry rinse in collaboration with French clothing company APC. Specially formulated for handwashing delicates, a bottle of 'fine fabric care' sells for $35 through APC.

This stepladder folds flat, so you can hang it against the wall. Available in a glossy red, black, or white finish, it's an object of beauty with a high price tag — buy it for $295 via Design House's US division.

Designed by by Marc Bell and Robin Grasby for International Studio, this cleaning system is similar to one of our favorite products — MUJI's Modular Cleaning System. Currently in prototype production (we couldn't find a version for sale?), it's made from maple, aluminum, and silicone with natural fiber brushes.

What would you nominate for Best Housekeeping 2011? Let us know in the comments.